Three Foods for a Healthier Heart

Get your heart in shape for Valentine's Day with these three simple recipes.

The Sun-Times - Heber Springs, AR

Writer

Posted Feb. 5, 2013 at 11:45 AM

Posted Feb. 5, 2013 at 11:45 AM

Valentine's day is just around the corner and that means it's time to get your heart in tip-top condition so it can love passionately and unabashedly. We recommend you start the process by feeding it right.

Here are three simple ways to incorporate heart-healthy foods into your diet:

Drain and rinse 1 (16-ounce) can white beans (such as Great Northerns or Cannellini). Place in a bowl with 1 jarred roasted red bell pepper, 1 crushed garlic clove, 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil and 1 teaspoon lemon juice. Mash with a fork. Spread on a wrap for a veggie sandwich, top with melted cheese as a side to chicken, pork or fish, or use as a dip for veggie sticks.

Walnut-Olive Pesto: Place 2 cups walnuts, 1 cup large pimiento-stuffed green olives, 1 large garlic clove, 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil, 1 teaspoon lemon juice and 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme in the bowl of a food processor. Pulse until coarsely chopped. Use as a topping for pasta, meat, fish or chicken, as a spread for crackers or as a sandwich spread. It's also a great flavor enhancer in sauces and chili.